Laika's big hopes for 'ParaNorman': Monday business roundup

Courtesy of Laika Animators created Norman and other residents of Blithe Hollow -- both alive, and undead -- in the Hillsboro warehouse that doubles as Laika's studio and headquarters.

Laika: Mike Rogoway has a comprehensive takeout on Laika, the Hillsboro-based animation studio that will release its second feature, "ParaNorman," this Friday in movie houses across the country. Laika, Rogoway reports, is aiming for a major hit that reflects the ambitions of its CEO, Travis Knight.

Here's some more required reading from the business desk of The Oregonian:

Arista Ballroom: Laura Gunderson reports on the fallout over the closing of the Arista Ballroom. Owner Eric Barton sees himself as the victim of a city permit imbroglio with Portland. But patrons believe otherwise. Who's right? Gunderson breaks it down from both sides.